Haney’s future with Giants uncertain, eyes coaching career
AMERICAN import Michael Haney has left the door ajar for a fourth season in the State Basketball League after winning the Goldfields Giants’ Most Valuable Player award for the second year running.
Haney, who polled 158 votes to win Saturday’s count convincingly from fellow import Alonzo Hird (138), leaves Australia today and will take up a college coaching job in New York when he returns home.
But Haney said the Giants’ loss to Perry Lakes in the semi-finals earlier this month could lure him back for a tilt at a third championship.
“There’s not a verdict yet,” Haney said.
“I have a job but if the job’s not for me I’ll be done in February so I’m still a chance. Time will tell.”
When asked whether the disappointment of an early play-offs exit this season would sway his decision to return in 2010, Haney replied:
“That’s probably one of the biggest motivations.
“Since I’ll be around the game every day coaching I’ll probably miss it.
“The fact I didn’t leave on a winning note means there’s a chance I’ll probably have that desire in my heart still (to come back).
“That’s why I play sport. Love and passion and having heart for the game is why I’ve stuck with this team and town for three years.”
A former NCAA division one player with the Eastern Kentucky Colonels, Haney has played 89 SBL games since signing with the Giants in November, 2006.
Haney shouldered a bigger offensive burden in 2009, averaging 19.3 points and 9.8 rebounds in 28 games, up from 16.8 points per game last season.
Goldfields coach Stephen Charlton said the 198cm forward had continued to improve as a player.
“I’m not surprised – I thought over the course of the season Mike was the most consistent player week-in, week-out,” Charlton said.
“His numbers went up this year on top of last year and he’s a very worthy winner.”
Charlton said he would welcome back Haney and Hird in 2010 if they are available.
“We’d have no problems having either of those players back,” he said.
MVP VOTING:
Michael Haney 158
Alonzo Hird 138
Ryan Hulme 87
Mark Heron 79
Shamus Ballantyne 68
Matt Leske 43
Todd Earle 28
Russell Hurst 16
Jimmy Bowler 7
Article by Jarrod Lucas (Kalgoorlie Miner)
Photo by Travis Anderson
Photo by Travis Anderson
Last Modified on 06/09/2009 17:20
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